Catheter devices for crossing and treating an occlusion

ABSTRACT

A device and method for treating a patient with total or near total occlusion is provided. The device can be positioned in a blood vessel at a treatment site. An occlusion at the treatment site is enlarged by a catheter. The catheter can be advanced over a guidewire into the occlusion. One or more of [a] compression or torsion applied to the guidewire or [b] compression or torsion applied to the catheter body expands or creates a path through the occlusion. The expansions or creation of the access path can be by cutting or abrading the occlusion or by a shoe-horn effect.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This application is directed to systems and methods for treatingocclusions, including crossing narrow passages of lumen segments ortotal occlusions.

2. Description of the Related Art

A variety of techniques exist to de-bulk occluded vessel segments. Whilethese techniques have met varying degrees of success, not all patientsare successfully treated in this manner. Some patients with peripheralocclusions are left with few options other than amputation of the limbfed by the occluded artery. Such drastic techniques are obviously notavailable to patients with extensive occlusion of coronary and othercritical arteries.

There are a number of products on the market that are designedspecifically for crossing CTOs and these can be categorized as eitherintraluminal, subintimal or re-entry devices. Intraluminal crossing intheory may reduce the dissection plane of a long occlusive lesion,protect collaterals and keep treatment options open. Subintimal crossingmay extend “re-entry” beyond the occluded segment, putting collateralsat risk and limiting treatment options. It may also increase the ratesof complications such as perforation and dissection and extend proceduretime with resultant increased radiation and contrast exposure. Alsobelow the knee, once a wire has crossed into the adventitia it can beextremely difficult to re-enter the true lumen.

Certain catheter systems have been developed to cross occlusions in anintraluminal manner. However, these catheter systems have problems. Forinstance three or more coaxially placed catheter bodies can work in asystem to cross a lesion. An inner solid guidewire member can beprovided within an outer sheath. An intervening rotatable layer can beadvanced over the guidewire from within the outer sheath to gouge orchisel the occlusion mass slowly away. One problem with this structureis that with three or more components, two operators may be needed tohandle components of the device.

Also, with more calcified lesions typical catheter bodies are not wellsuited to provide access. Generally, catheter bodies are of reducedstiffness toward the distal end thereof to minimize potential for traumato healthy vascular tissues. However, in order operate on highlycalcified lesions, the tip of the device should have greater stiffness.

Another problem with conventional techniques is (i.e.,atherectomy-devices) is that debris of atheroma may embolize and maylead to distal embolization including no-reflow phenomenon. In addition,for these devices greater arterial access sheaths are mandatory, whichlead to more vascular complications in this normally very ill patients.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For these reasons, there exists a need for a flexible, low-profileocclusion crossing catheter that is able to cross a region of vesselstenosis and establish a passageway sufficient to accommodate a ballooncatheter or other interventional device. The crossing catheter can be adelivery catheter in some implementations.

In one embodiment, a system is provided for creating an enlarged passageacross an occlusion within a blood vessel or cylindrical body cavity.The system includes a guidewire and a catheter device. The guidewire hasfree distal and proximal ends. The guidewire is configured to beadvanced relative to an occlusion and has an outer diameter. Thecatheter device has a flexible body, an implement, and a handle. Theelongate body extends between a proximal end and a distal end. Theelongate body having a lumen extending therethrough with an innerdiameter larger than the outer diameter of the guidewire. The implementhas a distal face, a side surface and a proximal end engaged with, e.g.,disposed over, the distal end of the elongate body. The distal end ofthe implement is configured to act upon a portion of the occlusion. Thehandle is disposed at the proximal end of the elongate body. The systemis configured such that distal pressure on the handle urges theimplement distally to firmly engage the occlusion. The lumen provideslateral support to the guidewire in some techniques. In othertechniques, the catheter itself primarily or solely acts upon theocclusion to enhance a passage therethrough. The system is configuredsuch that rotation of the handle causes the elongate body and theimplement to be rotated to enlarge the passage.

In another embodiment, a catheter for providing access across anocclusion is provided. The catheter has an elongate flexible body and anocclusion implement. The occlusion implement is a device used to clear apath through an occlusion as discussed herein. The elongate flexiblebody extends between a proximal end and a distal end. The occlusionimplement has a rigid distal face and a cylindrical body extendingproximally therefrom. The cylindrical body is configured to bejuxtaposed relative to a distal portion of the elongate flexible bodyover an interface. The catheter body is configured to be advanced withinthe vasculature to an occlusion. In one embodiment or technique, thecatheter body is configured to be advanced over a guidewire to theocclusion. In one embodiment or technique, the catheter body isconfigured to be advanced within the vasculature with an outer surfacethereof exposed to the vasculature. In another embodiment or technique,the catheter body is configured to be advanced within a sheath withinthe vasculature. In such embodiments or techniques, the outer surfacethereof, e.g., including at least the occlusion clearing implement, isexposed adjacent to the occlusion. In another embodiment or techniques,the catheter body is configured to be advanced unguided to an occlusionand to enhance access across an occlusion without the presence of aguidewire.

Preferably the occlusion implement has sufficient crush resistance toenable the energy or motion applied to the catheter to be used toenhance the access across the occlusion rather than to be used indeforming the occlusion implement. A distal tip or occlusion engagingportion should be more crush resistant than a more proximal structure,e.g., than the catheter body. The occlusion implement can be configuredto retain a minimum transverse dimension of at least about 90% of itsdiameter upon application of a crush force of about 15 psi wherebydeformation of an inner passage thereof is minimal during interactionwith an occlusion. The occlusion implement can be configured to retain aminimum transverse dimension of at least about 90% of its diameter uponapplication of a crush force of about 25 psi whereby deformation of aninner passage thereof is minimal during interaction with an occlusion.

In some variations, the occlusion implement can be configured to retaina minimum transverse dimension, e.g., of at least about 90% of itsoriginal or at rest diameter, upon application of a crush force of about3 Newton, in some cases as much as 5 Newton, in some cases up to andexceeding 7 Newton, and in some cases 10 Newton or more.

In some embodiments, the occlusion implement has a hoop strength greaterthan 15 psi or in some cases as much as 25 psi to minimize out or roundof the implement so that the implement will not bind upon a guidewire orguide catheter during use.

The catheter can provide other useful functions or can have other usefulfeatures. For example, the catheter can be configured to be a conduitfor contrast injection in some methods. The injection of contrast can beused to illuminate, e.g., to provide information about the operationalstate of the catheter, e.g., indicate if it is blocked by abradedmatter.

In some embodiments, the catheter has variable stiffness, for examplehas high stiffness at or near its distal end to enhanced occlusionabrading, reducing or eliminating effect. Proximal of the distal end,the flexibility of the catheter can be greater.

In some techniques, clearing the occlusion can involve removing one ormore guidewires and exchanging one guidewire for another guidewire. Forexample, a flexible wire could be exchanged for a stiff wire or a stiffwire for a flexible wire. It is preferred that such maneuvers do notdisturb the position of the distal end of the catheter significantly.Thus, a lubricious coating or material can be provided along the surfaceforming the guidewire lumen of the catheter. Also, the other surface cancomprise or be coated with a lubricious material to reduce the forceneeded to advance the catheter exposed within the vasculature or withina guide catheter.

In various embodiments below, the shape of cutting features, e.g.,teeth, on the distal end of the catheter can be configured to addresscertain types of occlusive matter. Harder occlusive matter may be moreefficiently cleared using teeth or similar structures that deliver afocused force. Less hard occlusive matter may be more efficientlycleared using less aggressive teeth or similar structures, which can actmore like a shoe-horn to scoop such material from the vessel lumen.

In some embodiments, an approach for addressing the tip or occlusionclearing implement filling with material is provided. The approach mayinvolve exchanging one filled catheter for a clear catheter. In thistechnique, a catheter is advanced, is filled, and is then removed with acore of material captured therein. Then a second catheter is advanced,filled and removed. This procedure is continued until a path through theocclusions is sufficiently large. Because each removed core may enlargethe bore of or lengthen the passable portion of the occlusions somewhat,second and subsequent catheters can be longer or can have largerinternal lumens and/or cutting implements. In other approaches, anaspiration lumen is provided through the catheter. The aspiration lumencan be the same lumen as the guidewire lumen, e.g., a large centrallumen. In other embodiments, separate aspiration lumens can be providedin the wall of the catheter. In this context, aspiration can includeremoving by negative pressure dislodged portions of the occlusionentirely from the patient's body and from the catheter. Aspiration canalso include just taking the dislodged portions up into a passage in thecatheter but not necessarily fully out of the patient's body and out ofthe catheter while the catheter is in the body.

In some embodiments, the tip of the catheter is flat, e.g., isperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lumen of the catheter. Anadvantage of this configuration is that it is more deliverable withinthe patient, e.g., in an exposed approach without a sleeve covering thetip. Angled tips may be used, and when used may be delivered in aprotective sheath in some embodiments or in some techniques involvingtortuous vasculature (e.g., in coronary vasculature or in neurovasculature). Angled tips may be delivered in an exposed state intechniques involving straight or non-tortuous vasculature (e.g., inperipheral vasculature).

An advantage of the catheter is that the distal tip will generallyinclude or be formed of a material that is highly opaque under X-ray.Thus, as the device is being delivered the clinician can easily see thetip, which can help with its safe delivery to the treatment site, evenwithout the need to inject a contrast medium and, in some techniques,even without a sheath or guidewire. Safety of delivery can also beprovided by maintaining the outer diameter of the catheter to a fractionof the unoccluded vessel size. For example, the catheter can bemaintained at about one-quarter the size or in some cases as small asone-eighth the size of the vessel diameter. In such embodiments, thecutting tip preferably has a length about equal to the vessel diameter.This aspect ratio enables the cutting or abrading portion of thecatheter to stay centered in and aligned with the longitudinal axis ofthe vessel. These configurations are particularly suited fornon-tortuous, e.g., straight, vessels as are found in the legs and otherperipheral vasculature.

In another embodiment, a method of treating a patient with total or neartotal occlusion is provided. In the method a blood vessel is accessed.The access can be by any catheter technique. A guidewire is advancedinto the patient to a treatment site. The treatment site has anocclusion that is desired to be cleared or enlarged, for example a totalor near total occlusion. A catheter is advanced over the guidewire intoapposition with a proximal portion of the occlusion. The catheter has alumen therethrough and a distal occlusion engaging portion, e.g., ananchor face, at a distal end thereof. The anchor face can be in the formof high friction or sharp features to enable the clinician toselectively prevent rotation of a catheter. One or more of [a]compression force or torsion to the guidewire or [b] compression forceor torsion is applied to the catheter body to expand or create an accesspath through the occlusion. An anchor face or other distal occlusionengaging portions can provide stability, like a climber's crampon, tothe catheter while a wire is being advanced or rotated therein to helpprovide access across the occlusion. The expansions of the access pathcan be by cutting or abrading the occlusion. In some cases, theexpansion can be provided or enhanced by a shoe-horn effect.

In another embodiment, a catheter is provided for providing accessacross an occlusion. The catheter includes an elongate catheterassembly, a lesion clearing implement, and an interface. The elongatecatheter assembly extends between a proximal end and a distal end. Thelesion clearing implement has a ring structure. The interface isdisposed between the ring structure and the elongate catheter assembly.The interface provides a protrusion disposed on one of [a] the elongatecatheter assembly and the ring structure and [b] a recess disposed onthe other of the elongate catheter assembly and the ring structure. Theinterface is at least partially in a radial direction such that an axialload can be transmitted across the interface.

In some embodiments, the interface is provided such that a protrusionand recess overlap in the axial direction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention may be better understood from thefollowing detailed description when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

Such embodiments, which are for illustrative purposes only, depict noveland non-obvious aspects of the invention. The drawings include thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 illustrates schematically a near total occlusion;

FIG. 1A illustrates a system the can be used to provide access across anocclusion for therapy devices to enhance treatment of an occlusion;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a device that canbe used in the system of FIG. 1A in providing access across an occlusionfor therapy devices;

FIG. 2A is a plan view of a second embodiment of a device for providingaccess across an occlusion for therapy devices;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment of adevice of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 4 is a perspective detail view of a distal portion of one variationof an occlusion crossing device, which can be incorporated into variousembodiments including the first or second embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a perspective detail view of a distal portion of anothervariation of an occlusion crossing device, which can be incorporatedinto various embodiments including the first or second embodiments;

FIG. 5A is a perspective detail view of a distal portion of anothervariation of an occlusion crossing device, which can be incorporatedinto various embodiments including the first or second embodiments;

FIG. 5B schematically shows one embodiment of a mechanical interfacebetween a tip portion and a catheter assembly.

FIG. 6 is a cut-away view of a distal portion of a catheter bodyillustrating how the catheter body provides enhanced stiffness in adistal portion;

FIG. 7A illustrates under fluoroscopic imaging a patient having achronic total occlusion, which patient is in dire need for a device thatcan quickly and safely cross the chronic total occlusion;

FIG. 7B illustrates under fluoroscopic imaging a system including aguidewire and an anchorable and/or rotatable crossing device advancedthrough a patient portion of an artery, toward a total occlusion;

FIG. 7C illustrates under fluoroscopic imaging a treatment device beingposition over the guidewire of the system of FIG. 7B through the totalocclusion;

FIG. 7D illustrates under fluoroscopic imaging advancement of thetreatment device entirely through the total occlusion to facilitateexpansion of a balloon catheter; and

FIG. 7E illustrates the same vessel segment of illustrated in FIG. 7A,where the occlusion has been opened and the flow restored.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Each and every feature described herein, and each and every combinationof two or more of such features, is included within the scope of thepresent invention provided that the features included in such acombination are not mutually inconsistent.

Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to cathetersystems for crossing vascular stenosis, such as near total occlusions,components thereof, and methods use of such systems and components.

As used herein, the term “near total occlusion” refers to regions ofvascular stenosis that reduce the cross-sectional area of the vessellumen by >80%, in particular, by >90%, and in some cases by more than95%. The term “total occlusion” means the entire vessel lumen is fullyoccupied by atheroma or other occlusive material preventing blood flowthrough the passage of the lumen.

As used herein, the term “substantially”, when used in reference to alinear dimension (e.g., length, width, thickness, distance, etc.) meanswithin plus or minus one percent (1%) of the value of the referencedlinear dimension.

FIG. 1 is a cartoon representation of a near total occlusion of a bloodvessel formed by a lesion 17. The blood vessel 10 has an interiorsurface 12, which defines a lumen 14. In atherosclerosis, lipid andfibro muscular material accumulate in the vessel wall, forming a lesionthat bulges into and occupies or occludes at least a portion of thelumen 14. Advanced-stage atherosclerotic lesions often include regionsof soft plaque 16 and regions of atheroma 18. In some cases, theatheroma 18 may be calcified making access by interventional techniquesdifficult or impossible.

When the atheroma 18 intrudes into the lumen 14, a stenosis 20 is formedthat can greatly reduce blood flow through the vessel. Angioplasty isone technique for treating a stenosis 20. In balloon angioplasty, adeflated balloon is mounted on an endovascular catheter, and thecatheter is pushed along the vessel 10 until the deflated balloonoccupies at least a portion of the stenosis 20. Once the deflatedballoon is positioned within the stenosis 20, the balloon is inflated,pushing the atheroma 18 back toward the vessel wall and enlarging thelumen 14 within the region of stenosis 20. In some cases, an expandablestent is used to restore the lumen 14 within the region of stenosis 20.

In many cases, a guidewire is pushed ahead of the endovascular catheterto aid catheter travel through the blood vessel. The guidewire is thinand has a smaller profile than the catheter. Often, the catheter has acentral lumen that accommodates the guidewire, and the catheter ridesalong the guidewire. This configuration of catheter is referred to as an“over-the-wire” catheter.

In some cases, the stenosis 20 is so narrow that the balloon catheter isunable to follow the guidewire through the stenosis. Rather, the ballooncatheter can get hung-up or blocked at the proximal or distal end(depending on the direction of approach) of the stenosis 20. In such acase, angioplasty is precluded because it is not possible to position adeflated balloon within the stenosis 20. In some cases, the atheroma 18forms a calcified plug that precludes passage of the guidewire throughthe stenosis 20.

FIG. 1A illustrates an occlusion crossing system 50 that can be used toimprove a clinician's ability to pass a balloon catheter or othertherapy device across a blockage formed by the lesion 17. The occlusioncrossing system 50 includes a sheath 54 and a catheter device 58. Thecatheter device 58 is provided for clearing a passage through the lesion17 to enlarge the access therethrough, which may involve cutting theocclusion. For this reason, in some passages the catheter device 58 isreferred to as a cutting catheter. The sheath 54 can be used to encloseand/or guide the catheter device 58 between a vascular access site andan occlusion. The sheath 54 thus provides protection for the un-occludedvessel(s) through which the catheter device 58 is delivered. Theocclusion crossing system 50 can also include a guidewire 62 to helpaccess or cross an occlusion.

The guidewire 62 can take any suitable form. It can be a long slenderwire with no lateral protuberances or it can have one or more lateralextensions. For example a plurality of barriers or shoulders can beprovided along a distal length of the guidewire 62 to engage and retainportions of the lesion 17. The guidewire 62 can have an anchor, such asa helical structure adapted to be advanced rotationally into the lesionto engage and hold it. These are examples of structures that canpositively engage and hold the lesion 17. When so engaged, thesestructures can provide a counter traction for holding the position ofthe lesion while catheter device 58 (or variant herein) is advanced intothe lesion to enhance access across the lesion. Examples of barriers andanchor are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,443 and U.S. Pat. No.5,047,040, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

The sheath 54 comprises a proximal end 64, a distal end 66, and a lumenextending through an elongate body 65 disposed between the ends 64, 66.The lumen is sized to receive the catheter device 58 as discussedfurther below. The proximal end 64 of the sheath 54 is preferablyconfigured to be coupled with other devices. For example, a branchedaccess port 68 can be provided at the proximal end 64. A first branch 70can be provided to couple with a fluid source. A second branch 72 can bealigned with the lumen of the sheath 54 to provide in-line access to thelumen of the sheath 54. One or both of the branches 70, 72 can have avalve structure to limit, minimize or eliminate blood loss. Atuohy-borst attachment can be provided on one or both of the branches70, 72. In one embodiment, the proximal end 64 includes a modularcoupling 74 that enables the branched access port 68 to be decoupledfrom the elongate body 65 if access via the branches is not required orfor certain phases of procedures where the branches are not needed andmight be in the way if not removed from the procedure zone. The coupling74 can include torque structures 75 on opposite sides thereof.

The catheter device 58 is configured to be advanced to the occlusion 20to provide a therapy as discussed herein. The catheter device 58comprises a proximal end 80, a distal end 82, and a lumen extendingthrough an elongate body 84 disposed between the ends 80, 82. The lumenis sized to provide access for a balloon catheter or other therapydevice, for fluid to be injected or withdrawn, and/or for material ofthe occlusion 20 to be lodged. The elongate body 84 has sufficientrigidity for deliverability and for providing cutting or segmentingaction at the occlusion 20. For example the body 84 can be configured toprovide 1:1 torque. As discussed below, braids and coils arecontemplated as structures providing pushability and flexibility forvarious applications, including peripheral, coronary and neuro-vascularapplications.

The elongate body 84 has a length sufficient to reach a treatment sitesuch as a peripheral, coronary, or neuro-vascular treatment site. Forexample, for ipsa-lateral treatment, the elongate body 84 can be betweenabout 40 and about 100 cm, e.g., about 80 cm. For a treatment in theiliac artery, the elongate body 84 can be about 60 cm. For a treatmentin the superficial femoral artery (SFA), the elongate body 84 can bebetween about 140 and 160 cm. For a treatment in the coronary arteries,the elongate body 84 can be between about 110 cm and about 140 cm. Forneurovascular applications the elongate body 84 can be between about 130cm and about 180 cm, e.g., about 150 cm. The sheath 54 can be about 10cm to about 20 cm shorter than the catheter device 58. The elongate body65 can be 10-20 cm shorter than the elongate body 84. More generally,the sheath 54 or elongate body 65 can be shorter than the catheterdevice 58 or elongate body 84 by an amount sufficient to provide aworking length.

FIG. 1A shows that the lumen in the body 84 can receive the guidewire 62in certain embodiments and for certain techniques. The proximal end 80of the catheter device 58 is preferably has a handle 86 that is used toactuate the catheter 58. The handle 86 is configured to transmit atorque. The proximal end 80 can also include a branched access port 88or other access device. A first branch 90 can be provided to couple witha fluid source F. A second branch 92 can be aligned with the lumen ofthe cutting catheter 58 to provide in-line access to the lumen in thebody 84. One or both of the branches 90, 92 can have a valve structureto limit, minimize or eliminate blood loss. A tuohy-borst attachment canbe provided on one or both of the branches 90, 92. In one embodiment,the branched access port 88 can be detached from the handle 86 whenaccess via the branches 90, 92 is not required or for certain phases ofprocedures where the branches are not needed and might be in the way ifnot removed from the procedure zone. In one technique, the branchedaccess port 88 is left in place when torqueing the catheter 58 becausethe first branch 90 provides a higher torque than the handle 86 in anoptional system and technique.

The distal ends 66, 82 can be configured to be incompressible and/orradiopaque. The distal end 82 can be configured to engage and disruptthe occlusion 20 to enhance access through the stenosis 20. The distalend 82 preferably is stiffer than the elongate body 84 at locationsproximal of the distal end 82. The end 82 includes an occlusion clearingimplement 94, which can be one or more teeth, a continuous but abrasivesurface for removing matter, a concave scooping structure for separatingvolumes of the matter from the occlusion 17 or other structuresdiscussed herein. As discussed further below, the implement 94 or thesystem 50 are configured to follow a directed path and not to causevessel injury in regions not being treated. The implement 94 can beradiopaque to provide visualization of the cutting catheter 58 whendisposed in the vasculature.

The sheath 54 is configured to slideably and rotatably receives thecatheter device 58. The inner surface of elongate body 65 and/or theouter surface of elongate body 84 can be configured to ease a retractingor extending motion in an axial direction, e.g., along the longitudinalaxis of the body 65 or the body 84. Either of these surfaces can have alubricious coating, for example. In one embodiment, the inner surface ofthe body 84 includes an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) orother similar liner. As a result, the end 82 of the cutting catheter 58can be pulled back into the end 66 of the sheath 54 for delivery orpushed out from the end 66 for engagement with the occlusion 20. The end66 is configured to minimize out-of-round conditions of the sheath 54.In particular, a support ring 96 of the body 65 can be made more rigidthan portions of the elongate body proximal of the distal portion 96such that the elongate body 84 can freely rotate within the body 65. Forexample the support ring 96 can include a metal or ceramic cylinder thathas hoop strength preventing it from being deformed when urged againstan occlusion. The rigidity of the support ring 96 provides the advantagethat the distal end 66 will maintain its pre-delivery configuration orwill be deformed only by an amount that would not restrict rotation ofthe body 84 and thereby the end 82. The support ring 96 can be made of aradiopaque material to enhance visibility of the sheath 94 and thesystem 50.

Methods of using the occlusion crossing system 50 or similar systemswith any of the alternative components described herein are discussedbelow

FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a clearing device 100. The clearingdevice 100 as or in combination with the catheter device 58 in theocclusion crossing system 50 discussed above. In the illustratedembodiment, the clearing device 100 has a handle 130 at a proximal end,a tip 140 at a distal end, and a flexible elongate body 110 that iscoupled to the handle 130 and the tip 140.

In some embodiments, the elongate body 110 is hollow and cylindrical orsubstantially cylindrical, having an internal surface 116, a centrallumen 114, an inner diameter 112, and an outer diameter 118. In severalembodiments, the inner diameter 112 is about 0.94 mm to about 1.07 mm.In several embodiments, the outer diameter 118 is about 1.12 mm to about1.37 mm. In some embodiments, the central lumen 114 is configured toaccommodate a guidewire (not shown). In at least one embodiment, theinner diameter 112 is less than 10% larger than the outer diameter of aguidewire. In other embodiments, a smaller gap on a percentage basis maybe provided. For example, some embodiments provide a less than 5% gapbetween the inner diameter thereof and an outer diameter of a guidewire(e.g., the guidewire 62 of FIG. 1A).

In other embodiments and techniques, the guidewire is used to track theclearing device 100 and specifically the tip 140 to the stenosis. Oncein position, the guidewire could be withdrawn and the clearing device100 can be used to enhance access across the occlusion. If the guidewireis in place the clearing device 100 system may rotate about the outersurface of the guidewire independently either exposed in the vessel orin the sheath 54. Thus, in some embodiments, the guidewire is notrequired to be in place or to rotate with the system for the device tofunction. In other embodiments and for certain applications, a guidewiremay not be used even for delivery of the system. For example, if thevessel segment is straight there may not be a need for a guidewire. Insuch cases, the clearing device 100 preferably is configured to enhanceaccess across an occlusion without support from a guidewire.

One feature that aids in guidance of the clearing device 100 whetherguided by a wire or a guide catheter is the configuration of a rigiddistal portion, for example of the tip 140. The tip 140 can beconfigured to minimize wandering within a blood vessel. In particular,blood is subject to varying pressures and certain peripheral bloodvessels have a relatively high mobility. By making the length of the tip140 greater than inner diameter 112 the distal portion of the clearingdevice 100 tends to remain generally straight in the vessel. In someembodiments, the length of the tip 140 is more than two times thediameter of the tip. In some embodiments, the length of the tip 140 ismore than two and one-half times the diameter of the tip. In someembodiments, the length of the tip 140 is more than three times thediameter of the tip. The tip 140 can be from 1-5 times the diameter ofthe tip in certain embodiments.

More generally, the clearing device 100 is not limited to natural bodylumens or blood vessels. For example, another application for which theclearing device could be used is for salvaging occluded dialysis grafts.Such application may benefit from a lower profile clearing device, e.g.,one having an outer diameter of bout 4-8 mm.

In some embodiments, a lining 120 covers at least a portion of the innersurface 116. In some embodiments, the lining 120 is made of a materialthat enhances the lubricity of the inner surface 116. In at least oneembodiment, the lining 120 is made from ePTFE. The lining 120 or otherlubricious structure or coating such as silicone or surface modificationfacilitates sliding of the elongate body 110 over a guidewire in amanner that reduces or minimizes forces that would tend to change thetracking force, the torque force, and the position of a the distalportion, such as a tip of the clearing device 100. As discussed below,in one mode the tip of the clearing device 100 is rotated about theguidewire to provide an abrading or gentle cutting action. Such actioncould be prevented if the distal portion, e.g., the tip becomes out ofround due to such forces.

In several embodiments, the outer surface of the clearing device 100 iscoated with a lubricious coating or structure to reduce friction withthe vessel wall during tracking, torqueing, and crossing of thestenosis. Examples of such structures include a layer of Teflon,silicon, or a hydrophilic coating. A lubricious sleeve could be used,which sleeve can be moveable relative to, e.g., configured to bewithdrawn from the clearing device 100.

In several embodiments, the clearing device 100 has a tip 140 that iscoupled to a distal end 152 of the elongate body 110. In someembodiments, a proximal end 154 of the tip 140 is disposed over thedistal end 152 of the elongate body 110. In some embodiments, the distalend 152 of the elongate body 110 is disposed over the proximal end 154of the tip 140. In at least one embodiment, the proximal end 154 of thetip 140 is coupled face-to-face with the distal end 152 of the elongatebody 110 such that the tip 140 and the elongate body 110 share a similarouter diameter, with a proximal face 143 of the tip 140 forming aninterface with a distal face 155 of the elongate body 110. In somecases, a transition between the proximal face 143 and a distal end ofthe elongate provide a joint without a step that could catch on externalmatter as the device 100 is being delivered. In several embodiments, thecutting tip is attached to the braided skeleton of the catheter bodyprior to coating the entire structure with an extruded polymer, afterwhich the tip can be subsequently exposed. Other reinforced catheterdesigns tend to store energy in the reinforcement. The result issomething like winding a spring rather than providing one-to-onerotation of the distal end upon rotation of the proximal end. In thecatheters herein the braided skeleton is preferably formed to reducestoring energy in the catheter body and to maintain as close as possibleone-to-one rotation to enhance the cutting work at the distal end forthe rotation at the proximal end. FIG. 6 shows a mesh material 190 towhich the tip could be welded or otherwise coupled, for example. Inother embodiments, the cutting tip can be attached to the catheter withan adhesive. Variations provide multiple layers of adhesive and layersthat can be applied or heat-shrunk over inner layers of the clearingdevice 10. In some cases, as described herein a recess and/or protrusionprovide a strong mechanical interface alone or in combination with otherattachment structures.

In several embodiments, the clearing device 100 has a handle 130 coupledto the proximal end 132 of the elongate body 110. In some embodiments,the handle 130 is configured to apply torque to the elongate body 110 asa user rotates the handle 130. In at least one embodiment, the clearingdevice 100 is configured so that the handle 130 applies an approximatelya 1:1 torque ratio to the elongate body 110, causing the tip 140 torotate substantially in unison with the handle 130. In some embodiments,the handle 130 is made of polymer. In at least one embodiment, thehandle 130 is made of polycarbonate.

FIG. 2A depicts an embodiment of a clearing device 100A that is similarto the clearing device 100 except as set forth differently below. Theclearing device 100A can be used with one or more components of thesystem 50. In this embodiment, a handle 130A is provided that includesat least one rib 134 that enhances a user's ability to apply torque byfinger pressure to the elongate body 110. In the illustrate embodiment,the handle 130A has two ribs that are disposed on opposite sides of thebody of the handle 130A. This structure enables a user to apply pressureby a thumb and index finger of a single hand to rotate the clearingdevice 100A. This provides for easy abrading or cutting action, with theprocedure being performed with just one or two hands. For instance, asdiscussed more below, this approach enables a user to hold a guidewirein one hand and the clearing device 100A in the other hand and toprovide rotation of the clearing device over the guidewire when so held.

In another technique, by altering the tension or compression on theguidewire the user can direct the leading edge of the clearing device100, 100A. If the wire bows under compression, for example, thetrajectory of the clearing device 100 can be altered. A plurality ofwires of different bending stiffness could be used to vary the bendingstiffness under compression. In one case, two or three wires areprovided which will be relatively stiff and could clear cause someenlargement of the occluded lumen. If operation of the clearing device100 is to commence, one or more of the wires can be removed. Forinstance a first wire can be removed so that the remaining wires willbow under compression. A tangent to the bent wire(s) that remain willdefine the trajectory of the clearing device 100, 100A. In a furtherstep, all wires can be removed to permit the clearing device 100, 100Ato be advanced without support, and unguided from that point on. Forprogressive enlargement a series of clearing devices 100 could be usedto enlarge the lumen slightly more for each device.

In some embodiments, the handle 130A is joined to the elongate body 110,which is of a different configuration, e.g., a different material orphysical structure. In such arrangements, a strain relief structure canbe provided between the handle 130A and the elongate body 110 tominimize kinking or other failure modes. One example of a strain reliefstructure includes a collar 136 that couples handle 130A to the elongatebody 110. In at least one embodiment, the collar 136 is bonded to thehandle 130A using an adhesive. In some embodiments, the collar 136 istapered such that a distal end 138 of the collar 136 has an outerdiameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of a proximal end 139of the collar 136. In several embodiments, the collar 136 is made ofpolymer. In at least one embodiment, the collar 136 is made of nylon. Inat least one embodiment, the collar 136 is made of polyether block amide(PEBA). Other functions of the strain relief include one or more of theminimization of kinking during general handling, tracking and torqueingof the catheter, facilitating the bonding of a larger diameter handle tothe smaller diameter catheter body, providing a surface for the printingof catheter specifications or color to denote the configuration of thecatheter.

In several embodiments, the clearing device 100 comprises a sleeve 160that surrounds at least a portion of the elongate body 110. In someembodiments, the sleeve 160 strengthens the junction of the tip 140 tothe elongate body 110. In several embodiments, the sleeve 160 minimizesabrupt diameter changes that may result during assembly of the tip 140to the elongate body 110. In some embodiments, the sleeve 160 surroundsthe distal portion of the elongate body 110. In at least one embodiment,the sleeve 160 surrounds the proximal portion of the tip 140 and thedistal portion of the elongate body 110. In some embodiments, a distalportion 162 of the sleeve 160 has an outer diameter that is larger thanthe outer diameter of a proximal portion 164 of the sleeve 160. In atleast one embodiment, the sleeve 160 is made of shrink tubing material.Other functions of or modes of operation of the sleeve 160 (e.g., shrinktubing 160) include providing any or all of the following:

-   -   lubricity—the outer surface may be made of a material that is        more slippery or made to be more slippery than the catheter body        thus facilitating tracking and torqueing the catheter;    -   support—the sleeve may be configured to increase the        longitudinal stiffness of the distal portion of the catheter,        resulting in the cutting tip being guided in a straight; and/or    -   protection—the sleeve covers the trailing edge of the cutting        tip and protects it from being dislodged during tracking and        torqueing.

Although illustrated as a separate layer that is applied to the elongatebody 110, the sleeve 160 could be configured as a coating or couldinclude a coating disposed over it.

FIGS. 4 and 5 depict illustrative embodiments of the tip 140. Asdiscussed below, the tip 140 interacts with the lesion tissue and isconfigured to remove or displace lesion tissue. In several embodiments,the tip 140 is configured to remove lesion tissue through differentmodes of operation including cutting, tearing, shaving, or abrading thelesion tissue. The tip 140 may be configured to use one, or more thanone, method of removing lesion tissue. In several embodiments, the tip140 provides lateral support to the guidewire as the guidewire isadvanced through a stenosis. In some embodiments, the tip 140 canprevent the guidewire from buckling as the guidewire is advanced throughan occlusion or a near total occlusion. In providing this function, thetip 140 can be configured with a bore having a diameter that is close tothat of the guidewire, e.g., within about 10% of the diameter of theguidewire. The gap between the guidewire and the clearing device 100should be large enough to keep resistance to relative movement(advancement and/or rotation) between these components to an acceptablelevel for tracking and twisting. In addition, the clearing device 100may be used as an exchange device for changing guidewires or otherinterventional devices without losing position or access to the targetlesion. The lumen in the clearing device 100 can be used for drugdelivery and contrast injection as needed.

The tip 140 has a distal face 142, a side surface 144, and a distalopening 146. In the embodiment of the tip 140 shown in FIG. 4, thedistal face 142 of the tip 140 is disposed generally at a planeextending transverse to the longitudinal axis of the tip 140. The face142 can also be beveled, such that it is rounded in a proximal directionfrom such a plane, e.g., toward and outer surface of the tip 140. Thisarrangement is advantageous in that a longitudinal force along the axisof the clearing device 100 will produce a generally straight trajectoryof the tip 140 as it advances. The distal face 142 can be disposed on aplane at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis in certain embodiments,but disposing the distal face 142 on a transverse plane results in lessdeflection of the tip upon advancement or rotation.

In some embodiments the tip 140 can be beveled and serrated. An exampleof a serrated tip provides a plurality of sharp edges on the surface 140disposed around the circumference of the tip 140. The sharp edges can beelongated and disposed on the side surface 144. The edges can be axialedges. The edges can be spiral edges. In some embodiments, the sharpedges can be configured for removing material from the clearing zonedisposed around the distal face 142. In some embodiments, teeth or othercutting structures can be disposed on the inside of the lumen extendingproximally from the distal opening 146. Cutting structures disposed onthe side surface 144 can have an arcuate configuration facing thedirection of the cut. For example, the cutting surface can have an angleof attack facing the direction of motion of the clearing device. Thecutting surface can be position to maximally cut upon rotation of theclearing device 100 in some embodiments. The cutting surface can bepositioned to maximally cut upon advancement of the clearing device 100in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the distal face 142 is blunt(not shown). In at least one embodiment, the distal face 142 isabrasive. In the embodiment of the tip 140A shown in FIG. 5, the distalface 142A has a plurality of cutting teeth 170. The face 142A can alsobe considered to be disposed on a transverse plane, for example, forexample if the distal aspects or proximal aspects of the teeth 170 aredisposed at the same plane disposed transverse to the axis of the tip140A. In some embodiments, the cutting teeth 170 are configured to holdthe lesion tissue fixed relative to the tip 140A, allowing the clearingdevice 100 to tear lesion tissue away from vessel wall. In someembodiments, the cutting teeth 170 are configured to slice through thelesion tissue, allowing the clearing device 100 to remove lesion tissuein a manner that minimizes twisting stress on the vessel wall.

In several embodiments, the side surface 144 of tip 140 includes anelement for moving displaced or separated abraded matter from theworking zone of the clearing device 100. For example, in one embodimentat least one flute 180 serves to debulk the lesion as the tip 140rotates within the stenosis 20. In some techniques, aspiration isprovided through a main (e.g., central) lumen of the clearing device100. In some approaches, if a guidewire is present, aspiration throughthe main lumen can be enhanced by removing the guidewire.

In some embodiments, the flute 180 includes a hole that passes throughthe tip 140. In at least one embodiment, the flute 180 communicates witha lumen, e.g., a dedicated aspiration lumen (not shown) or the centrallumen 114 of the elongate body 110. If the abraded matter is to beaspirated out of the clearing device 100, 100A or otherwise segregatedtherein, a dedicated lumen may be preferred in that the sliding contactbetween the inner surface 116 of the elongate body 110 and the outersurface of the guidewire should remain as debris-free as possible toreduce the chance of these surfaces becoming seized. In otherembodiments, a greater gap is provided between the inside surface of theelongate body 110 and a guidewire positioned therein and abraded orseparated matter from the occlusion can be aspirated or sequestered inthe main lumen. In at least one embodiment, the flute 180 is a circularhole having a diameter of 6.6 mm.

Other uses for the flutes 180 are to confirm the status of the clearingdevice 100. For example, an imaging agent can be delivered through alumen in fluid communication with the flutes. The pattern of the imagesindicates the status of the clearing device. In one instance, theimaging agent may not emerge from the clearing device 100. The cliniciancan then know that the clearing device 100 is occluded and could beremoved and either cleared or replaced with a second clearing device. Inanother instance, the imaging agent can indicate whether the occlusionof the vessel is sufficiently enlarged for other treatment. In anotherinstance, the imaging agent may indicate that a different mode of use ofthe clearing device 100 should be used. For example, if one side of theclearing device 100 is occluded a second side of the device could berotated into position to further clear the lumen.

In some embodiments, apertures similar to the flutes 180 can be providedthrough the tip 140A to provide for securement to other parts of theclearing device. For example, the tip 140A can be configured as a metalcylinder to be joined to an elongate polymeric catheter body. To securethe cylinder, holes in the cylinder can be configured and positioned tohave portions of the catheter flow or extend into the holes. In onetechnique a polymeric body of the clearing device 100 disposed on theinside of the cylinder is formed such that a portion thereof protrudesradially outwardly into the holes. In one technique a polymeric body ofthe clearing device 100 disposed on the outside of the cylinder isformed such that a portion thereof protrudes radially inwardly into theholes. FIG. 5A shows an example where holes are disposed beneath thesleeve 160. The sleeve is applied to a portion of the side surface 144of the tip 140A such that the sleeve extends into the holes. Thisprovides for securement of the cylinder to prevent it from slipping offthe elongate body 110 or from being displaced proximally which wouldinterfere with the clearing function.

The elongate body 110 proximal of the tip 140 must be flexible to enablethe clearing device 100 to travel through a tortuous vasculature forcertain applications, e.g., for coronary or neurovascular procedures. Atthe same time, the elongate body 110 must be stiff to transmitcompressive and torsional forces to the tip 140. In several embodiments,the elongate body 110 is made of polymer. In some embodiments, theelongate body 110 is made of a polymeric material selected from thegroup consisting of polyimide, and PEBA. In some embodiments, theelongate body 110 is made of one material embedded in another material.In an embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the elongate body 110 is made of amesh material 190 embedded in a coat material 194. In at least oneembodiment, the mesh material 190 includes 304-stainless steel flat wirebraid. In at least one embodiment, the coat material 194 is made of apolymer, such as polyimide and/or PEBA. In some embodiments, multiplelayer and multiple polymers may be employed. In addition, in severalembodiments the elongate body can be fashioned from a material orcomposite structure at the proximal end to provide more push such as ahypotube and be attached to a material of softer stiffness to facilitatetracking and delivery of the cutting tip.

In several embodiments, the clearing device 100 is used in conjunctionwith a guidewire (not shown). In many embodiments, a guidewire isadvanced endovascularly until the distal end of the guidewire reaches astenosis targeted for angioplasty. In some embodiments, the clearingdevice 100 is mounted onto a guidewire by feeding the proximal end ofthe guidewire into the distal opening 146 of the tip 140. The guidewireis then passed through the central lumen 114 of the capture device 110,and drawn out of the proximal opening 133 of the handle 130. The tip 140is advanced along the guidewire until the distal face 142 of the tip 140encounters the lesion 17. As discussed elsewhere herein, close clearancebetween the lumen 114 and a guidewire help to reduce the crossingprofile. In some embodiments and in some techniques, having closeclearing also helps in bracing the guidewire. Bracing is not requiredfor various embodiments and techniques. In some cases, a guidewire isnot needed in any aspect of the method.

In some embodiments, the tip 140 is used to gently abrade the lesion 17.Once the distal face 142 makes contact with the lesion 17, a userapplies torque to the handle 130, causing the handle 130 to rotate aboutthe guidewire. The elongate body 110 transmits the torque to the tip140, causing the distal face 142 of the tip 140 to slide over thesurface of the lesion 17. In many embodiments, a user rotates the handle130 in alternating clockwise and counterclockwise directions. In someembodiments, the handle 130 is rotated in only one direction. In someembodiments, a user applies compressive forces by pushing the handle 130in the distal direction. In some embodiments, a user appliessimultaneously compressive and torsional forces by pushing the handle130 in the distal direction while rotating handle 130 about theguidewire.

In several embodiments, the tip 140 is configured to resist deformation.In some embodiments, the tip 140 is made of an alloy possessing highstrength properties. In at least one embodiment, the tip 140 is made ofseamless drawn tubing of L-605 composition. In several embodiments, thetip 140 defines a circular lumen. In at least one embodiment, the tip140 has an inner diameter of 1.25 mm and a circularity of less than0.0050 mm. In at least one embodiment, the tip 140 is a hollow cylinderwith an outer diameter of 1.45 mm, a wall thickness of 0.2 mm, and alength of 4.5 mm. As noted above, configuring the tip to avoid beingdeformed out of round provides assurance that the clearing device 100,100A will not seize up upon the guidewire, preventing relative rotation.In at least some embodiments, a close fit between the guidewire and theclearing device 100, 100A is provided so that the clearing device 100can provide a bracing effect to the guidewire. This bracing effectenables the guidewire to be advanced distally out of the abrading devicein a mode of operation where the guidewire is urged forward across thelesion. In order to provide this bracing effect while still maintainingthe clearing device 100 rotatable over the guidewire, out of round ofthe inner diameter should be reduced, minimize or eliminated.

FIG. 5A illustrates another tip arrangement that can be provided on anyof the clearing or cutting devices disclosed herein. The embodimentincludes a tip 140B that includes a first structure 200 for providing amechanical interface between the tip 140B and an elongate catheterassembly and a second structure 204 for removing or retaining matterremoved from the lesion 17 during the procedure. The first structure 200can include one or a plurality of recesses 212. The recesses 212 form apart of an interface disposed between the tissue modifying surface,which can include a ring or ring structure of the tip 140B and one orboth of the sleeve 160 and the elongate body 110, which can be disposedwithin the tip 140B. The recesses 212 can be formed around acircumference of the tip 140B, e.g., at equal angular spaced apartcircumferential locations. The recesses 212 can be holes disposedentirely through the ring structure of the tip 140B. The sleeve 160and/or the elongate body 110 can interface with the tip 140B byprotruding into the recess 212. In other embodiments, the recesses 212can disposed on an inside surface of the sleeve 160 or an outsidesurface of the elongate body 110 and a lateral protrusion formed on thetip 140B can protrude into the recesses. The interface between therecesses 212 and the elongate catheter assembly can be disposed at leastpartially in a radial direction. As such, an axial load can betransmitted across the interface such that a pushing, pulling orrotational force is directly transmitted from the proximal end to thetip 140B. Also, the interface formed in and by the recesses 212 providesupplemental securement to the tip 140B such that it will not detachfrom the elongate body 110.

The second structure 204 can include a plurality of apertures 216disposed about the circumference of the tip 140B. The holes provide forthe tip 140B to take in matter that is liberated from the lesion 17. Asdiscussed above, the aperture 216 can be blind end holes or can extendentirely through the tip 140B and be in fluid communication with a lumenfor aspiration or retention of the matter. The second structure 204 canbe arranged at one axial position or can be an array of holes disposedalong a length of the tip 140B.

The second structure 204 can be in communication with a source of fluid,e.g., through the branch 90, such that fluid can be injected through anaperture or through an array of apertures. The fluid can be a medicationor can act as a lubricant to facilitate motion. The fluid can be acontrast medium such that the outflow through the apertures of thesecond structure 204 can indicate the degree of fill of the interior ofthe clearing device 100.

In various embodiments, the second structure 204 can include aperturesof different types such that distal-most apertures may extend partlythrough the wall of the tip portion 140B while apertures proximalthereof may extend entirely through the wall to provide fluidcommunication between an outside of the clearing device 100 and a lumentherein. That way more distal apertures can fill without obstructing thelumen. Once the distal-most apertures are filled, the more proximalholes will become obstructed and prevent contrast from flowing out ofthe device 100 indicating the device is full or nearly full.

A further embodiment is illustrated in connection with FIG. 6. Inparticular, a tip (such as the tip 140, 140A, 140B) can be attached tothe mesh 190 at the distal end of the mesh 190. The distal end of thetip can be disposed proximally of the distal end of the lining 120 orproximal to the distal end of the distal-most section of the coatmaterial 194. For example, the distal end of the tip can be at the lineL in FIG. 6. This provides a bumper zone 220 distal to the end of thetip 140, 140A, 140B. The bumper zone 220 can prevent an unintentionalinteraction with an un-diseased vessel wall. The bumper zone 220 isgenerally more deformable than the tip 140, 140A, 140B so under a higherforce it will either compress axially or radially under the lesion 17thus not preventing the treatments discussed above.

FIG. 5B shows a partial cross-section of one wall of a catheter device100, 100A around the structure 200 for providing a mechanical interface.An interface is disposed between the ring structure of the tip 140B andthe elongate catheter assembly. The interface I provides a protrusion ofthe layer 160 into the recesses 212 as shown. In alternative embodiment,the layer 110 can extend radially outwardly into the recess 212. Theinterface is at least partially in a radial direction in that a portionof the layer 160 is deformed into recess 212. An axial load can betransmitted across the interface I in the direction of the arrow A. Insome embodiments, the interface is provided such that a protrusion andrecess overlap in the axial direction. The distal aspect of the aperture212 can be just distal of (axially in front of) a portion of the layer160. The proximal aspect of the aperture 212 can be just proximal of(axially behind a portion of the layer 160.

In some embodiments, radial stiffness and resistance to deformationshould be minimal at least in an occlusion clearing portion. A braid,such as the mesh material 190, can be used to reduce or eliminatedeformation of the inner diameter.

In at least one embodiment the tip has an oval or non-round outerprofile or is disposed radially or laterally away from an axis ofrotation of the catheter assembly. Such an arrangement provides thatwhen the clearing device is rotated about the guidewire it creates acircular lumen larger with a cross-sectional area greater than thecross-sectional area of the crossing device. In one embodiment, an ovalor other non-round outer profile may be best for softer material. Roundouter profile may be better to provide a more focused force to clearharder materials.

Another advantage of a structure maintaining inner diameter stability isthat crossing profile and clearance will be more constant and morepredictable. In contrast, if the tip compresses and the tip deforms, theprofile of the tip may be reduced, which will reduce the effectivenessin clearing the lumen. If the inner diameter is collapsed, the clearancemay be reduced or eliminated. Reducing or eliminating clearance mayresult in cutting off the ability to remove severed matter form theclearing device 100. This may result in blockage of the device and theneed to replace the clearing device 100.

Additional Methods

An actual use of a clearing device similar to the clearing device 100and the system 50 is illustrated by FIGS. 7A-7F. FIG. 7A illustratesunder fluoroscopic imaging a patient having a chronic total occlusion.The dark region shows that contrast media that has been injected istrapped upstream of the occlusion. FIG. 7B illustrates the device underfluoroscopic imaging a system. The clearing device 100 is disposed overa guidewire. The clearing device is positioned to be (and is after thepoint in time recorded in FIG. 7B) advanced through the occlusion. FIG.7C illustrates under fluoroscopic imaging a balloon catheter disposedover the guidewire and across the occlusion. FIG. 7D illustrates underfluoroscopic imaging the balloon expanded at and on both sides of theocclusion. The arrows point to a narrowing of the balloon at the site ofthe occlusion showing that the remains of the occlusion are more rigidthan the balloon. FIG. 7E illustrates the same vessel segment ofillustrated in FIG. 7A, where the occlusion has been opened and the flowrestored.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Treatment of In-Stent Restenosis

A 54-year-old male presented Stage IIb peripheral artery disease (PAD)arising from restenosis of a stent placed in the right common iliacartery four years earlier. A 0.035-inch diameter PTFE endovascularguidewire was inserted into the patient and advanced across the regionof stenosis. A balloon catheter was then mounted onto the guidewire inan over-the-wire (OTW) configuration and advanced to the region ofstenosis. The balloon catheter was unable to cross the target stenosis.The balloon catheter was withdrawn from the patient, and an embodimentof the clearing device 100 was mounted onto the guidewire in an OTWconfiguration. In this and the following examples, embodiments of theclearing device 100 were used. The embodiment of the clearing device 100used to treat this patient had a 0.035 inch inner diameter and a leadingedge outer diameter of 0.071 inch. As discussed above, the serrated tipwas used to advance the catheter in resistance lesions by abrading orcutting through the inner luminal edges of the vessel stenosis in muchthe same way that a saw is used to cut through a piece of wood. Whilethe blunt or beveled tip is used more like a shoe horn but also may haveto some degree abrading abilities.

The embodiment of the tip 140 used to treat this patient had a distalsurface 142 that was blunt and abrasive. The clearing device 100 wasadvanced along the guidewire until the distal surface 142 of the tip 140made contact with the lesion tissue. The distal surface 142 of the tip140 gently abraded the lesion tissue. Gentle abrasion was achieved bypushing the handle 130 in the distal direction and, at the same time,rotating the handle 130 about the guidewire. The handle 130 was rotatedin both directions during the abrading procedure.

As the lesion tissue was abraded, the clearing device 100 was advancedalong the guidewire until the tip 140 had crossed the region ofstenosis. After the tip 140 had crossed the region of stenosis, theclearing device 100 was withdrawn from the patient, and a ballooncatheter was re-mounted on the guidewire in an OTW configuration. Theballoon catheter was advanced along the guidewire to reach the targetstenosis. The balloon catheter was now able to enter the region ofstenosis because the clearing device 100 had abraded the target lesionand enlarged the stenosis, allowing the stenosis to accommodate theprofile of the balloon catheter. Once the balloon catheter waspositioned within the lumen of the target stenosis, the balloon wasinflated to further enlarge the stenosis. After balloon angioplasty, theballoon catheter was removed from the patient. Radiography confirmedblood flow was restored in the targeted vessel.

Example 2 Recanalization of the Superficial Femoral Artery

A 70-year-old male presented Stage IIb peripheral artery disease (PAD)arising from occlusion of the superficial femoral artery. Radiographicimaging indicated the occlusion affected a length of >25 cm of artery,with the patient having 95% truncus tibiofibularis stenosis. A0.035-inch diameter endovascular guidewire was inserted into the patientand advanced across the region of stenosis. A balloon catheter wasmounted onto the guidewire in an over-the-wire (OTW) configuration andadvanced to the region of stenosis. The balloon catheter was unable tocross the target stenosis. The balloon catheter was withdrawn from thepatient, and an embodiment of the clearing device 100 was mounted ontothe guidewire in an OTW configuration. The embodiment of the clearingdevice 100 used to treat this patient had a 0.035 inch inner diameterand a leading edge outer diameter of 0.071 inch.

The clearing device 100 was advanced along the guidewire until thedistal surface 142 of the tip 140 made contact with the lesion tissue.The distal surface 142 of the tip 140 gently abraded the lesion tissue.Gentle abrasion was achieved by pushing the handle 130 in the distaldirection and, at the same time, rotating the handle 130 about theguidewire. The handle 130 was rotated in both directions during theabrading procedure. Applying gentle pressure on the handle 130 ensuredthe distal surface 142 of the tip 140 was abrading the lesion by movingover the lesion surface. If pressure is applied too strongly to thehandle 130 the lesion tissue may merely twist in unison with the distalsurface 142 of the tip 140, making the abrading procedure ineffective.As the lesion tissue was abraded, the clearing device 100 was advancedalong the guidewire until the tip 140 had crossed the region ofstenosis. After the tip 140 had crossed the region of stenosis, theclearing device 100 was withdrawn from the patient and angioplasty wasperformed. Radiography confirmed blood flow was restored in the treatedvessel.

Example 3 Treatment of Short Superficial Femoral Artery Occlusion

An 86-year-old male presented Stage IIb peripheral artery disease (PAD)arising from occlusion of the superficial femoral artery. Radiographicimaging indicated the occlusion affected a length of <6 cm of artery. A0.035-inch diameter endovascular guidewire was inserted into the patientand advanced across region of stenosis. A balloon catheter was mountedonto the guidewire in an over-the-wire (OTW) configuration and advancedto the region of stenosis. The balloon catheter was unable to cross thetarget stenosis. The balloon catheter was withdrawn from the patient,and an embodiment of the clearing device 100 was mounted onto theguidewire in an OTW configuration. The embodiment of the clearing device100 used to treat this patient had a 0.035 inch inner diameter and aleading edge outer diameter of 0.071 inch.

The tip 140 of the clearing device 100 was moved to the target lesion byadvancing the handle 130 distally along the guidewire. Once the distalface 142 of the tip 140 was in contact with the target lesion, thehandle 130 of the clearing device 100 was gently pushed in the distaldirection and rotated back-and-forth about the guidewire, causing thedistal face 142 to gently abrade the target lesion. This method oflesion abrasion was continued until the tip 140 of the clearing device100 had crossed the region of stenosis. Once the tip 140 crossed thelesion, the clearing device 100 was withdrawn from the patient bypulling the handle 130 in a proximal direction until the clearing device100 was removed from the guidewire. Next, a balloon catheter was mountedonto the guidewire for use in balloon angioplasty. The balloon catheterwas mounted on the guidewire in an OTW configuration and advanced alongthe guidewire to reach the target stenosis. The balloon catheter was nowable to enter the region of stenosis because the clearing device 100 hadabraded the target lesion and enlarged the stenosis, allowing thestenosis to accommodate the profile of the balloon catheter. Once theballoon catheter was positioned within the lumen of the target stenosis,the balloon was inflated to further enlarge the stenosis.

After balloon angioplasty, the balloon catheter was removed from thepatient, and a delivery catheter carrying an expandable stent wasmounted onto the guidewire in an OTW configuration. The deliverycatheter was advanced along the guidewire until the DES was within thelumen of the target stenosis. The stent was then deployed to maintainthe enlarged lumen and restore blood flow to the previously occludedvessel.

Example 4 Treatment of Truncus Tibiofibiolaris Stenosis

A 72-year-old male presented Stage IV peripheral artery disease (PAD)arising from calcified below-the-knee (BTK) 99% truncus tibiofibiolarisstenosis. After a successful wire-crossing of the stenosis by a0.014-inch diameter guidewire, a 1.2 mm outer diameter over-the-wireballoon catheter was advanced along the guidewire using a 1.5 mmdiameter push catheter. The balloon catheter was unable to cross thestenosis. The balloon catheter was withdrawn from the patient and anembodiment of the clearing device 100 was mounted onto the guidewire inan OTW configuration. The embodiment of the tip 140 used for thisexample had a 0.018 inch inner diameter and a leading edge outerdiameter of 0.063. The handle 130 was moved distally along the guidewireto advance the tip 140 to the target lesion. Once the distal face 142 ofthe tip 140 was in contact with the target lesion, the handle 130 of theclearing device 100 was gently pushed in the distal direction androtated back-and-forth about the guidewire to cause the distal face 142to gently abrade the target lesion.

This method of lesion abrasion was continued until the tip 140 of theclearing device 100 had crossed completely the region of stenosis. Oncethe tip 140 crossed the lesion, the clearing device 100 was withdrawnfrom the patient by pulling the handle 130 in a proximal direction untilthe clearing device 100 was removed from the guidewire. Next, a bladeangioplasty catheter was again mounted onto the guide wire in an OTWconfiguration. The blade angioplasty catheter was advanced along theguidewire. The blade angioplasty catheter was now able to enter theregion of stenosis because the clearing device 100 had abraded thetarget lesion and enlarged the stenosis, allowing the stenosis toaccommodate the profile of the blade angioplasty catheter. The bladeangioplasty catheter was used to further enlarge the stenosis. Afterblade angioplasty, the blade angioplasty catheter was removed from thepatient, and a delivery catheter carrying an expandable drug-elutingstent (DES) was mounted onto the guidewire in an OTW configuration. Thedelivery catheter was advanced along the guidewire until the DES waswithin the lumen of the target lesion. The DES was then deployed tomaintain the enlarged lumen and restore blood flow to the previouslyoccluded vessel.

The above presents a description of modes contemplated of carrying outthe present invention, and of the manner and process of making and usingit, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable anyperson skilled in the art to which it pertains to make and use thisinvention. This invention is, however, susceptible to modifications andalternate constructions from that discussed above which are fullyequivalent. Consequently, it is not the intention to limit thisinvention to the particular embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, theintention is to cover modifications and alternate constructions comingwithin the spirit and scope of the invention as generally expressed bythe following claims, which particularly point out and distinctly claimthe subject matter of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A catheter device, comprising: a proximal portionto be disposed outside a patient in use; a distal portion to be advancedfrom outside a patient to a proximal face of an occlusion; an elongatebody extending between the proximal portion and the distal portion end,the elongate body having a lumen extending therethrough with an innerdiameter configured for sliding and supporting interaction with aguidewire, the elongate body being sufficiently stiff to transmit torqueapplied to the proximal end 1:1 to the distal end; a rigid ring coupledwith the distal portion, the rigid ring having a occlusion reducingfeature disposed at a distal end thereof, a side surface with at leastone opening extending inwardly from the side surface, and an interfacecoupled with the distal end of the catheter elongate body; and a handlecoupled with the proximal portion; wherein the catheter is configuredsuch that rotation or translation of the handle is transmitted to thelesion without deformation of the inner periphery of the rigid ring. 2.The catheter device of claim 1, wherein the reducing feature comprises acutting blade.
 3. The catheter device of claim 1, wherein the reducingfeature comprises an abrasive surface.
 4. The catheter device of claim1, wherein the at least one opening comprises at least one channel forretaining occlusion material separated from the occlusion at the distalend.
 5. The catheter device of claim 4, wherein the at least one channelis in fluid communication with an aspiration lumen.
 6. The catheterdevice of claim 1, wherein the rigid ring has an outer diameter that islarger than the crossing profile of a balloon catheter.
 7. The catheterdevice of claim 1, wherein the lumen of the elongate body has innerdiameter of approximately 0.020 inch to 1.00 inch.
 8. The catheterdevice of claim 1, wherein the rigid ring retains a minimum diameter ofat least about 90% of its initial diameter upon application of a crushforce of about 3 Newtons.
 9. The catheter device of claim 1, wherein therigid ring has a length and a width, the length being more than twotimes the width thereof.
 10. The catheter device of claim 1, furthercomprising a bumper zone disposed distally of a distal end of the rigidring.
 11. A catheter for providing access across an occlusion,comprising: an elongate flexible body extending between a proximal endand a distal end; an occlusion clearing implement having a rigid distalface and a cylindrical body extending proximally therefrom, thecylindrical body configured to be juxtaposed relative to a distalportion of the elongate flexible body over an interface; wherein thecatheter body is configured to be advanced over a guidewire within thevasculature; wherein the occlusion implement retains a minimumtransverse dimension of at least about 90% of the at-rest minimumtransverse dimension thereof upon action against a lesion wherebydeformation of an inner passage thereof is minimal during interactionwith the lesion.
 12. The catheter of claim 11, further comprising atleast one recess disposed on an outer surface of the catheter, the atleast one recess configured to accommodate material dislodged from alesion at the occlusion.
 13. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the atleast one recess is disposed on an outer surface of the occlusionclearing implement.
 14. The catheter of claim 12, wherein the at leastone recess comprise a plurality of openings formed through thecylindrical body.
 15. The catheter of claim 11, wherein the innerpassage is large enough to permit advancement of a balloon cathetertherethrough.
 16. The catheter of claim 11, wherein the occlusionclearing implement retains a minimum transverse dimension of at leastabout 90% of its at-rest diameter upon application of a crush force ofabout 3 Newtons.
 17. A support catheter for an occlusion crossingprocedure, comprising: an elongate body extending between a proximal endand a distal end, the elongate body having a lumen for supporting aguidewire; a crossing tip disposed on the distal end, the crossing tipbeing configured to be advanced and/or rotated in a reciprocating motionto actively remove material forming the occlusion upon advancementand/or rotation; wherein the inner periphery is configured to retain itsshape upon acting on the occlusion so as not to impede the reciprocatingmotion.
 18. The support catheter of claim 17, wherein the elongate bodyis configured to provide a 1:1 transmission of torque between theproximal end and the distal end.
 19. The support catheter of claim 17,wherein the crossing tip comprises a hoop strength of 15 psi.
 20. Thesupport catheter of claim 17, wherein the crossing tip retains a minimumdiameter of about 90% of its initial diameter upon application of acrush force of about 3 Newtons.